Mayor Pencho Milkov reported on progress on key municipal projects, policies and services within the framework of 2025.

Tuesday, 23 December 2025

Ruse Municipality ends 2025 with real results in the implementation of large-scale investments, social policies and sustainable development measures aimed at improving the quality of life and the modernization of the city and settlements. The year was marked by a transition from planning to active construction and implementation of projects with national and European funding, as well as by the approval of long-term policies in key public areas. This was stated by Mayor Pencho Milkov during the annual meeting with the media in the Ruse Municipality building, at which the actions taken and the results achieved in the main areas of municipal activity were reported.

Among the leading highlights is the management of an investment portfolio with European and national funding worth over 180 million leva. A significant part of these funds are directed to the renovation of the transport, social, educational and cultural infrastructure. Under the Regional Development Program 2021–2027, key concepts with a total budget of about BGN 62 million were launched during the year, which include the rehabilitation of main city boulevards, the construction of bicycle lanes, the introduction of new electric public transport, the renovation of stops and the improvement of conditions for pedestrians and cyclists. In parallel, the implementation of projects for the expansion and modernization of iconic cultural sites and the creation of new spaces for cultural and public events has begun.

Significant progress has also been reported under the National Recovery and Sustainability Plan, under which the Municipality of Ruse is implementing projects for nearly BGN 52 million with a completion date of mid-2026. Within the framework of the plan, energy renovation activities were launched in 2025 for a number of multi-family residential buildings, which lead to lower energy costs and better living conditions. In parallel, projects for the modernization of schools, kindergartens and student dormitories have been implemented, including the construction of an accessible environment and modern STEM spaces. The construction of an International Youth Center has also begun, which provides support and opportunities for the development of young people up to 29 years of age, including representatives of vulnerable groups.

In the social sphere, the year was marked by a comprehensive approach to improving care for people. The renovation of nursing homes, the construction of new social services for residential care and the expansion of innovative health and social services, including remote monitoring of the health status of people with chronic diseases, have been launched. For the first time, a municipal annual plan for social services has been developed and adopted, which systematizes and plans their development in dialogue with all stakeholders.

In 2025, the municipality continues its active work in the field of healthcare and prevention. Programs for preventive examinations of children, support for parents and families, assisted reproduction and early childhood development have been upgraded. Initiatives aimed at the eye and dental health of the youngest children have been expanded, as well as support for foster families and newborns.

The environment and the urban environment remain among the priorities of the municipality. During the year, new air quality monitoring systems have been introduced, measures have been implemented to replace heating appliances with more environmentally friendly alternatives, and waste management has been improved through new facilities. The renovation of green areas and the creation of better conditions for outdoor recreation and sports continue, with a focus on the sustainable use of resources.

Important strategic steps have been taken in the field of transport. A Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan for the period 2026–2036 has been adopted, public transport routes have been optimized, and free travel for citizens has been provided on holidays and important days for the city. Solutions have also been prepared for a better organization of parking in the central part of the city.

“Education and culture continue to develop as key factors for the future of Ruse,” said Mayor Milkov. During the year, new educational facilities were opened, construction and modernization of school and sports infrastructure began, and initiatives for robotics, digitalization and single-shift training were supported. The rich cultural calendar with international festivals, national awards and partnership projects establishes the city as a leading cultural center with active participation of the local community and visiting artists from the country and abroad.

In response to a question about management priorities, the mayor of Ruse outlined three main directions that determine the long-term vision for the development of the city. “First of all, we put the improvement of the material and micro-urban environment – ​​the spaces that people see and use daily,” said Milkov. He emphasized that efforts are aimed not only at the implementation of large facilities, but also at systematic investments in inter-block spaces, the street network, urban lighting and public buildings, including schools, kindergartens 

and nurseries. The goal is for Ruse to develop evenly and visibly in all neighborhoods.

The mayor highlighted as a second key priority the restoration of trust in local institutions through open communication, transparency and humane treatment. "Citizens' criticality is natural. Therefore, the administration must be close to the people, work honestly and without pressure, party affiliation or economic influences," he said. In his words, this model of governance is established through clear rules, respect and professionalism in relationships both within the Municipality and with citizens, the media and business.

The third strategic priority outlined by the mayor is the establishment of Ruse as a real national priority and a leading city in Northern Bulgaria. Milkov pointed out that consistent work with state institutions leads to increased funding for key projects and infrastructure, with the goal being for Ruse to permanently take its place as a strong, significant and respected city. "Restoring the self-esteem and dignity of Ruse residents is a long-term process that starts from within - with confidence, consistency and a clear vision for the future of the city," he emphasized.

During the meeting, it also became clear that the Municipality of Ruse is working towards improving the waste collection and disposal system in small settlements, considering the possibility of this activity being taken over by a municipal enterprise. In parallel, a phased introduction of separate collection is being discussed, including the provision of containers for separate waste to households. Working meetings have been held on the topic with the Regional Inspectorate for Environment and Water, with the main focus being on finding sustainable solutions and the necessary financial mechanisms for their implementation. The emphasis is on reducing the quantities of waste that enter the landfill, as this directly affects the amount of the municipal waste fee for citizens.

In this regard, the Municipality also takes into account the future introduction of the "polluter pays" principle, in which the fee will be tied to the waste actually generated. Discussions are also underway with the companies involved in separate collection in the city, which operate with financial resources from product fees. Currently, the Municipality is looking for the most balanced option that would allow the introduction of new services without leading to an additional financial burden for citizens.

In conclusion, the mayor emphasized that 2025 is a year of intensive work, in which the foundations for future projects and sustainable development are laid. "Results come when there is consistency, dialogue and clear responsibility towards the city and the people," summarized Pencho Milkov.

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